Pregnant Women's Karva Chauth: Safe Or Not?

Karva Chauth is a Hindu festival where married women fast for the longevity, safety, and prosperity of their husbands. The fast is observed from morning to moonrise, and women abstain from food and water until they break the fast after offering puja to the moon. While this festival is popular among married women, it raises concerns about the health of pregnant women and their unborn children. Doctors do not recommend fasting for pregnant women as they need adequate hydration and nutrition to maintain their health and that of their babies.

Seek a doctor's advice

If you are pregnant and considering fasting for Karwa Chauth, it is important to seek advice from a medical professional. Every pregnancy is unique, and your doctor will be able to advise you on whether your body is strong enough to endure the fast. Here are some reasons why you should consult a doctor before deciding to fast during pregnancy:

Health Risks

Fasting for Karwa Chauth typically involves abstaining from food and water from sunrise to sunset or moonrise. This prolonged period without nourishment can be harmful to both the mother and the unborn child. During pregnancy, the baby relies solely on the mother for nutrition, so it is crucial to maintain adequate nutrient and fluid intake. Fasting can lead to low blood glucose levels, which can impact the detection of fetal movements. It can also cause bloating, acidity, nausea, and discomfort in the mother.

Individual Considerations

Your doctor will be aware of your specific health conditions and can guide you accordingly. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or any underlying health issues, fasting may not be advisable. Additionally, if you are experiencing pregnancy-related complications such as gestational diabetes, fasting can make it challenging to manage your blood sugar levels.

Alternative Options

If you are determined to participate in the fasting rituals, your doctor may suggest alternative options. For example, they may recommend a falahari fast, where you can consume fruits, milk, milk products, nuts, and seeds, ensuring you eat something every two to three hours. This type of fast can help you feel included in the traditions while minimising potential health risks.

Hydration

Dehydration during pregnancy can lead to serious complications. If you decide to fast, it is crucial to include fluids such as milk, fruit juices, or water-rich fruits like watermelon and melon to maintain hydration.

Nutritional Requirements

Pregnancy is a nutritionally demanding time, and your body requires a balanced diet to support the growth and development of your baby. A doctor can advise you on how to meet these increased nutritional needs while observing the fast, ensuring that you do not deprive your body or your baby of essential nutrients.

Remember, it is essential to prioritise your health and that of your unborn child. Consult with your doctor to make an informed decision about fasting during Karwa Chauth, and always follow their recommendations to ensure a safe and healthy experience.

Avoid dehydration

Dehydration is more common during pregnancy and can cause harm to both the mother and the baby. It is the result of your body losing water faster than you are taking it in. Hence, it is important to be mindful of this and take the necessary precautions to avoid dehydration.

Pregnant women need to consume extra nutrients, and morning sickness, as well as conditions that cause excessive vomiting, may also play a role in dehydration. It is recommended that women drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day. Water plays an important role in the healthy development of your baby, such as helping to form the placenta and the amniotic sac.

• Increase fluid intake: Aim for a clear urine colour, as opposed to dark yellow. If your urine is dark yellow, increase your water intake. Drinking fresh fruit juice every 2-3 hours can also help prevent dehydration.
• Avoid caffeine: Caffeine can increase urine output, leading to dehydration.
• Avoid overheating: Avoid strenuous exercise or spending a lot of time in a hot environment, as this can lead to maternal overheating, a common sign of dehydration.
• Drink milk: Start your day with a glass of milk to ensure you are fuelled throughout the day.
• Get adequate rest: Take proper rest and do not exert yourself during fasting, as your body is already working extra hard and is devoid of proper nourishment.

If you are pregnant and planning to observe a religious fast, such as Karwa Chauth, it is important to take precautions to avoid dehydration. Doctors recommend that pregnant women consume liquids and drink extra water to keep themselves healthy and hydrated. Coconut water, fresh juices, milk, and fresh fruit smoothies are good options to include in your diet. However, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before finalising your plan.

Eat a nutritious meal before sunrise

Eating a nutritious meal before sunrise is crucial for maintaining the health of both mother and unborn child during Karva Chauth. Here are some essential guidelines and recommendations to ensure a safe and healthy fasting experience for expectant mothers:

The Importance of a Nutritious Meal Before Sunrise

Pregnant women are advised to refrain from performing the Nirjala Vrat, which involves abstaining from food and water for an extended period. Instead, it is crucial to consume a nutritious meal before sunrise to provide the body with the necessary fuel to sustain itself and the unborn child. This meal should be rich in nutrients that support the overall health of both the mother and the baby.

Recommended Foods to Consume Before Sunrise

• Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of high-quality proteins, calcium, phosphorus, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. Opt for fat-free or low-fat options.
• Legumes: Include legumes like lentils, peas, beans, chickpeas, soybeans, and peanuts in your meal. They are great sources of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, folate, and calcium, which are essential for a healthy pregnancy.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for the baby's development, but be mindful not to consume too much vitamin A from animal sources.
• Salmon: Salmon is an excellent source of essential omega-3 fatty acids, which play a vital role in the baby's brain and eye development. It is also a natural source of vitamin D.
• Whole Eggs: Whole eggs are a great way to boost your overall nutrient intake. They contain choline, which is vital for brain health and development.
• Broccoli and Leafy Greens: Broccoli and leafy greens like kale and spinach are packed with fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, calcium, iron, folate, and potassium. They help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of low birth weight.
• Lean Meat: Lean beef, pork, and chicken are excellent sources of high-quality protein. They also provide iron, choline, and B vitamins, which are crucial during pregnancy.
• Berries: Berries are a great source of water, healthy carbohydrates, vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, and plant compounds. They provide flavor, nutrition, and relatively few calories.
• Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains like oats, quinoa, brown rice, wheat berries, and barley instead of refined carbohydrates. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant compounds, and some also contain protein and B vitamins.
• Avocados: Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, fiber, folate, and potassium. They may also help relieve leg cramps.

Additional Tips for a Safe Karva Chauth Fast

While consuming a nutritious meal before sunrise is essential, there are also other recommendations to ensure a safe fasting experience:

• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before finalizing your Karva Chauth plan, consult your doctor or healthcare provider, especially if you intend to fast. They can guide you on any necessary modifications or adjustments to ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain hydration. Dehydration can lead to symptoms like headaches, anxiety, and tiredness. Aim for 8–12 cups (64–96 ounces) of water per day, but consult your healthcare provider for a personalized recommendation.
• Consume Liquids: If you choose to fast, ensure you consume liquids and stay well-hydrated. Listen to your body and prioritize your health and the well-being of your baby.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from any form of physical exertion during the fast. Engaging in strenuous activities can lead to exhaustion and put unnecessary strain on your body.

Avoid heavy jewellery and accessories

Karwa Chauth is a one-day festival in which married women observe a fast for their husband's long life and pray for their health, safety, and prosperity. The festival is one of the biggest Hindu celebrations for married women, mainly across North India.

However, fasting during pregnancy can be dangerous for both the mother and the unborn child. Doctors advise that pregnant women should not perform Nirjala Vrat, which involves abstaining from food and water for 12 to 14 hours. Instead, they can observe the Falahari Vrat, where they eat fruits, milk products, and other Falahari dishes every two to three hours.

In addition to the risks associated with fasting, pregnant women should also be cautious about wearing heavy jewellery and accessories. Here are several reasons why:

• Swelling: As the body retains more fluid during pregnancy, fingers can swell, making it difficult to remove rings. Typically, swelling becomes an issue in the third trimester, but this can vary between pregnancies.
• Skin Reactions: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect how the body reacts to certain metals commonly found in jewellery, such as gold, silver, platinum, and titanium. Some women may experience skin reactions as early as the first few weeks of pregnancy.
• Infection Risk: Accessories are not sterilised and can contain microbes that increase the risk of infection.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Metal accessories can react to changes in temperature, potentially leading to burns.
• Chemical Reactions: Accessories may react with chemicals in medical settings, leading to swelling and skin problems.
• Accidents: Wearing jewellery increases the risk of accidents, cuts, and scratches.
• Theft: Hospitals do not take responsibility for patients' belongings, and theft can lead to trauma, especially with sentimental jewellery.
• Heavy Metal Exposure: Some costume jewellery contains heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and nickel, which can be harmful to pregnant women and their unborn children. These metals have been linked to developmental and learning problems in children and can be transferred to the foetus through the skin, breast milk, blood, or placenta.
• Allergic Reactions: Heavy metals in jewellery can cause allergic contact dermatitis, leading to rashes on the lips, hands, arms, or fingers.
• Child Safety: Jewellery should be kept out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion, which can cause serious health risks.

Consume fibre-rich fruits

Karwa Chauth is a one-day festival where married women observe a fast from morning to moonrise and pray for their husbands' health and longevity. While the festival is a special occasion for married women, it is not advisable for pregnant women to remain without food and water for 12 to 14 hours. This is because babies in pregnant women receive all their nutrition from their mothers, and hence it is critical that pregnant women consume enough water and maintain a nutrient-rich diet.

If you are pregnant and still want to observe the fast, here are some tips to consume fibre-rich fruits during Karwa Chauth:

• Start your day with a glass of milk and include fibre-rich fruits such as bananas and pomegranates.
• Include a lot of healthy drinks throughout the day, such as fruit juices, buttermilk, and coconut water, to keep yourself hydrated.
• Avoid high-calorie foods or foods rich in sugar as they may lead to gestational diabetes.
• Do not skip juices and fresh fruits as they will lead to weakness and maybe even health complications.
• If you are struggling with any pregnancy-related health issues, it is best to consult your doctor before observing the fast.
• You can also observe the falahari vrat, where you can eat fruits, milk products, and other falhari dishes every two to three hours.

It is important to remember that the health of both the mother and the baby is critical, and hence it is advised to consult a doctor before observing any fast during pregnancy.

Frequently asked questions